Dixon’s finance director says pay multi-million dollar debt first

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Moving forward after the Rita Crundwell scandal, the city of Dixon is trying to decide it's financial future. There are plenty of ideas about where to start.

It was a packed house, Thursday, October 10, 2013. All were there to discuss how the city of Dixon should spend $40 million. The money comes from a court settlement, after the city's former comptroller Rita Crundwell stole nearly $54 million from the city.

The public had their own ideas as to what the money should go towards.

"I'd like to see it go towards memorial pool, renovating it or maybe a newer pool and activities for the kids," said Kim Ford.

A common suggestion was repairing Memorial Pool, an historic pool that has been closed for ten years, while repairing roads was another idea.

"The roads are in pretty bad shape, especially on our street," said Randy Smith.

Others say paying off the city's debt is the first priority.

"I think the money should be spent on retiring bonds that the city is carrying right now," said Antony Deteer.

The city's finance director is also recommending paying off the city's debt of $18 million then looking at sewer and streetscape maintenance.

However, people say it's going to take more than money to heal their wounds.

"I think the city is still in the process of rebuilding trust with the citizens and I'm not convinced that's been reached yet," said Deteer.